Proud to be an American Celebrating Citizenship

Nadine Mouser-St. Austin Literacy Director

FourthofJulyisafavoriteholidaycelebratedintheUnitedStates.Itis a holiday that Americans often celebrate with barbecues, picnics, neighborhoodandcityparades,fireworkdisplays,andconcerts.Formany ofusraisedintheUnitedStateswesometimesneedhelprememberingthe reasonbehindthisholiday.OnJuly4th,1776,delegatesfromthe13 coloniesadoptedtheDeclarationofIndependence.From1776tothe presentday,July4thistheannualcelebrationofthebirthofAmerican independenceandcitizenship.

In2022,St.AustinLiteracyCenterproudlyhelped27studentsstudy and complete the process of becoming American citizens. Their excitementandjoyaftertheirswearing-inceremonieswerepalpable,as seeninthephotosabove.

Prayer

On this Independence Day I am reminded of all those who have sacrificed for my freedom, following the example of your Son, Jesus Christ. Let me not take my freedom, both physical and spiritual, for granted. May I always remember that my freedom was purchased with a very high price. My freedom cost others their very lives.

Lord, today, bless those who have served and continue to give their lives for my freedom. With favor and bounty meet their needs and watch over their families.

Help me live my life in a way that glorifies you, Lord. Give me the strength to be a blessing in someone else's life today and grant me the opportunity to lead others into the freedom that can be found in knowing Christ. Amen.

Saint Paul Catholic Parish-Berlin, Connecticut